This study presents a really interesting approach to improving CO2 electroreduction selectivity for ethanol. That said, a couple of things could use more clarification. First, while the role of perfluorooctane in modifying the hydrogen-bonding network is well explained, is there any direct experimental evidence showing how C8F18 interacts with Cu sites? Something like in situ FTIR or XPS under reaction conditions could help back this up.
Also, the stability tests look promising over 60 hours, but was there any sign of fluorine loss or catalyst degradation beyond that? It’d be great to know if F leaching or changes in Cu oxidation states could affect long-term performance.
This study presents a promising strategy for enhancing ethanol selectivity in CO₂ electroreduction. However, a few key aspects require clarification:
– Beyond the 60-hour test, was ICP-MS analysis performed to confirm whether fluorine leaching occurs over extended operation?
– Is there direct experimental evidence (e.g., in situ FTIR, XPS under reaction conditions) demonstrating how C8F18 modifies Cu sites?
– The study uses a Cu(111)-F model, but were Cu oxidation states (Cu¹⁺, Cu²⁺) considered? This could significantly impact reaction pathways.